Los Angeles – City of Angels, of endless Sunshine, La-La Land. Whatever you know it as it’s hard not to love this scattered metropolis with its convergence of cultures and the abundance of opportunity.
As elopements and intimate weddings become more and more common, people are searching for places to elope that are more than just a pretty backdrop — they are looking for places that are meaningful or for a place that offers an unforgettable experience to coincide with their ceremony.
A Los Angeles elopement should definitely be on your list to consider when planning your wedding. And my hope is that this guide will help you in your planning process.
Why Los Angeles?
Let’s start here — why LA?
As a native of Southern California, I have known and loved Los Angeles my entire life and I love sharing it with my clients. There is so much culture and art in LA. And from a photographic or elopement aspect, the opportunities for unique and enlightening experiences never cease.
And because of this, I think having a Los Angeles elopement is always a grand idea.
What makes this city so special and so unique? And what makes it so perfect for an elopement?
Diverse Experiences
Los Angeles is known for its diversity and with that diversity comes a wide array of cultural opportunities, cuisine, architecture, and the like. And, for me at least, that makes it a perfect canvas for an elopement.
There is just so much to unpack, explore, and experience.
In addition to the diverse cuisine, LA offers an epic art scene. It is unique and impressive and, if you are an art lover, it must be experienced.
From the Getty to MOCA to LACMA, there are so many museums, and galleries, both big and small, tucked in every corner of the city just waiting to be enjoyed.
Weather
The weather in Los Angeles is great. Fall, winter, and spring are all mild and enjoyable and the city has the advantage of 275 sunny days a year. This makes planning a Los Angeles elopement a bit less stressful as you don’t have to have to worry about the forecast as much as you may in other places.
Location
If you decide on a Los Angeles elopement, you are in a prime location.
Think of your elopement as an experience, one where your elopement is just the start of an unforgettable adventure. The entire state is at your fingertips when you start your elopement celebration in LA.
If you decide to extend your stay there are so many other amazing cities within the Los Angeles area, such as Pasadena and Long Beach. Step outside of the city limits and you have innumerable beaches and mountains to explore. Roadtrip it up the coast on the fabled Pacific Coast Highway. Take a tour of Sonoma’s wine country. Learn to surf or hike through Big Sur.
Truly, you have the ability to make your elopement a west coast vacation filled with road trips, amazing food, and cultural experiences.
Best Locations for an Elopement
There are a lot of great places to have your elopement ceremony, from both a convenience and a photographic stance. Here are a few of my favorites that I think are particularly special:
The Eames House
The Eames House, also known as Case Study House No. 8, is a mid-century modern architectural masterpiece nestled in the Pacific Palisades. This location is ideal for couples who appreciate design and want a unique and visually stunning setting for their elopement.
Surrounded by eucalyptus trees, the house and its grounds offer a serene and artistic atmosphere. It’s a space that feels both private and inspiring, perfect for an intimate ceremony of up to 8 people.
Le Chacuel
Le Chacuel, located in the high desert near Joshua Tree, offers an extraordinary blend of modern luxury and natural beauty. This architectural gem provides a secluded and tranquil setting, making it an ideal location for a stylish and memorable elopement.
With its minimalist design, breathtaking desert views, and incredible lighting, Le Chacuel is a dream for photography. Couples who choose this location can also enjoy the nearby attractions of Joshua Tree National Park for an unforgettable post-ceremony experience.
Topanga Canyon
Close to Malibu and the beach, Topanga Canyon State Park is a lovely place to create some wedding memories.
Topanga Canyon is a part of the Santa Monica Mountains and abounds with miles and miles (36 miles to be exact) of trails, rugged canyons, wide open grasslands, and expansive ocean views. It is rustic enough to feel remote and secluded but is super close to Malibu and other LA suburbs.
After you’ve explored Topanga Canyon, head over to Malibu to watch the sunset on the beach and catch an inspiring dinner in town. Or the town of Topanga may be more your vibe with its rugged, laid-back appeal. It’s a cute little hippie town with quite a few locally-owned cafes and stores.
Beverly Hills Courthouse
Beverly Hills Courthouse For couples looking for a simple yet elegant elopement, the Beverly Hills Courthouse is a great choice. Located in one of the most iconic neighborhoods in Los Angeles, this courthouse offers a classic and chic vibe for your ceremony.
Afterward, you can stroll through the beautiful streets of Beverly Hills or head to a nearby restaurant for an intimate celebration. The area’s lush greenery and iconic palm-lined streets provide a perfect backdrop for photos.
How to Plan a Los Angeles Elopement
The beautiful thing about elopements is that they can truly take a life of their own. You can fashion them completely after your personality and without the input of others, no matter how well intended.
For this reason, each elopement that I photograph unfolds in a completely unique way.
Contact me for more information on my elopement packages and how you can best document this beautiful time in your life.
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